Generally speaking, I've grown tired of undead films. Although favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely depleted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in defy what I anticipated turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
One of the film's strongest strengths is its superb rhythm. It begins with a striking opening sequence where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to observe this household prior to the tragedy struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—a clearly awkward dynamic. Naturally, this has predictably caused a falling out among Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, who is kind-hearted but socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming alongside Nes' young son, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business called Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his marriage to Nes' ex-best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering is extremely strained.
Engaged in the Drama
I found myself so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly overlooked I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a negative, yet in the end paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film to showing us the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they add to the general turmoil. This focus on conflicting traits enabled me to connect to the personalities enough to care about their fate—an uncommon feat in a genre which frequently introduces individuals just to eliminate them soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to devour, thus it's a real surprise once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid comedy prior to taking an abrupt shift into shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than a unintended laboratory incident or a type of bioweapon, the source for this contagious disease originates in a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, I wish the film devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras went from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to creating a deadly elixir which seems to include an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this condition has on humans proves utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring choice, but it works. The Elixir's physical effects and CGI also appear very realistic, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Resourceful Personalities
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, we see some instances of dubious decision-making (like any any good undead film), however generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and sharp. They also aren't afraid to strike an undead in the head, pierce it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with whatever blunt instrument they find instead of standing still like a deer caught in lights as death nears.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict when people begin transforming to the undead, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but since you nearly died I immediately pardon you for everything! trope frequently used in apocalyptic movies. Obviously, Nes cares for her family and values her husband, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains holding onto bitterness over his betrayal in their relationship. Once the household gets separated, they decide over the phone to meet up at a close location. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses an immense amount of frustration toward Bang which has obviously been brewing for years. Nes is not flawless, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience immediately resolves familial strife. This makes the moments when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel much more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. Yet these are successful frights, and because the movie allows every personality sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
